Meet the Team. First up we have Lucy! From Guide Dogs UK to New Beginnings in Poland

Hi, I’m Lucy! I graduated with a BSc Hons in Animal Behaviour Science from Lincoln University in 2007. Following my degree, I applied for a Guide Dogs UK position I'd long wanted. After a rigorous interview process, I was thrilled to be offered the job. Moving away from home was exciting, and my journey as a Guide Dog Mobility Instructor (GDMI) began.

Being a GDMI was a dream job. I worked with incredible people and dogs, helping to improve lives. My focus was always on understanding individual needs and enhancing the dogs’ training to meet high performance standards. I deepened my knowledge through seminars and workshops, learning to train dogs more effectively and ethically. However, as my understanding grew, I wanted to do more to support others on their journey.

I had trained many GDMI trainees and led internal training, which motivated me to apply for a Training and Behaviour Consultant role. I was excited to be leading on organisational change, focusing on coaching, communication, and leadership. Moving to Manchester to be closer to the training school, I dedicated myself to implementing significant changes at Guide Dogs UK. Our team impacted policies, procedures, and internal staff training modules, transforming the organisation’s approach to dog training.

In 2022, I also took on a second role as a Clinical Animal Behaviourist, which broadened my experience with different dog breeds and behavioural issues. By early 2023, I began feeling like I wanted a lifestyle change. An impromptu conversation with my Polish husband led us to decide to emigrate to Poland. We sold our house, left England, and moved to Bielawa, a beautiful town near the Sudety Mountains.

Now in Poland, I work as an English language teacher, and I’m learning Polish, aiming for fluency. I’ve also started voice acting for a children’s book series, which has been great fun. My passion for assistance dogs remains strong, and I’m excited to be involved with the Polish guide dog school Fundacja Labrador, where I’ll be delivering staff training later this year.

Joining United Partners as a Behaviour & Partnership Consultant allows me to continue supporting assistance dog organisations. I’m grateful to Guide Dogs UK for the opportunities and growth they provided, and I hope to use my experience to make a positive impact in the future.